Reconciliation Tides
The last night of the honeymoon.
The moon hung low and silver over the lagoon, turning the water into liquid starlight.
Ava walked barefoot along the beach, the hem of her white cotton dress brushing the wet sand.
Lucian followed a few steps behind, giving her space, but never letting her out of sight.
She stopped where the waves kissed the shore and sat, knees drawn to her chest, staring at the horizon.
He settled beside her, close enough that their shoulders touched, but not quite touching.
For a long time they just listened to the ocean breathe.
Finally she spoke, voice soft.
I used to hate you so much I couldn’t sleep.
She turned her head, looked at him. And now I hate that I don’t hate you at all.
Lucian’s throat worked. Moonlight carved sharp sha
